)If you're staying in the west entrance area (Kalispell, Whitefish, Bigfork, Columbia Falls or Somers) of Glacier National Park, you'll be near the Apgar Village and Lake McDonald region. Here's a suggested three-day itinerary to explore the highlights of this area:

Day 1: Lake McDonald Area Exploration

  1. Morning: Start your day with a visit to Apgar Village. Grab coffee (and your own breakfast) at one of the local cafes or enjoy a picnic by Lake McDonald to fuel up for the day.

  2. Boat Tour: Take the scenic boat tour on Lake McDonald, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The tour provides insights into the park's history and geology.

  3. Trail of the Cedars: After the boat tour, embark on the Trail of the Cedars, an accessible and picturesque loop trail that winds through old-growth cedar and hemlock forests. The trail features a wooden boardwalk and is suitable for all skill levels (connects with Avalanche Lake Hike).

  4. Avalanche Lake Hike: In the afternoon, hike to Avalanche Lake. This moderate 4.5-mile round-trip hike takes you through a lush forest and ends at a beautiful glacial lake surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls.

  5. Evening: Return to Apgar Village for dinner or have a cookout at one of the picnic areas. Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll by the lakeshore to witness a mesmerizing sunset over Lake McDonald.

Day 2: Going-to-the-Sun Road and Logan Pass

  1. Early Start: Get an early start and drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road towards Logan Pass. The road can be busy, so arriving early ensures better parking opportunities.

  2. Logan Pass: Once at Logan Pass, take the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail. This short, paved trail rewards you with breathtaking views of Hidden Lake and the surrounding alpine scenery.

  3. Lunch: Enjoy a packed lunch or dine at the Logan Pass Visitor Center before heading back down the Going-to-the-Sun Road.

  4. Scenic Stops: Make stops at various viewpoints along the way, such as Jackson Glacier Overlook, Wild Goose Island, and Sunrift Gorge, to capture the beauty of the landscape and possibly spot wildlife.

  5. Evening Relaxation: Return to Apgar Village, and if you have some energy left, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore Lake McDonald from a different perspective. Alternatively, unwind by the lake and enjoy the tranquility of the evening.

Day 3: Many Glacier Area Exploration

  1. Drive to Many Glacier: Leave the west entrance area and head to the Many Glacier region. It's a bit of a drive, but the scenery along the way is worth it.

  2. Grinnell Glacier Hike: Once in Many Glacier, embark on the iconic Grinnell Glacier hike. This challenging yet rewarding hike offers breathtaking views of glaciers, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. If the full hike is too strenuous, take a boat across Swiftcurrent Lake to shave off some distance.

  3. Picnic at Josephine Lake: After the hike, have a well-deserved picnic at Josephine Lake, surrounded by towering mountains and cascading waterfalls.

  4. Swiftcurrent Lake Boat Tour: Relax on a boat tour of Swiftcurrent Lake and enjoy the serenity of this picturesque glacial valley.

  5. Evening: Return to the west entrance area, and on your way back, consider stopping at viewpoints you might have missed on day two. Enjoy your last evening in Glacier National Park, and if you have time, stargaze as the park is known for its dark skies.

Please note that this itinerary is just a guide, and you can adjust it based on your interests, hiking abilities, and park conditions. Always check for trail closures and current park alerts before setting out on any adventure. Enjoy your time in Glacier National Park!

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The Flathead Valley in Montana offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or leisurely pursuits, the Flathead Valley has something for everyone. Here's a list of things to do in the Flathead Valley:

  1. Glacier National Park: Explore the stunning landscapes, glaciers, and diverse wildlife of Glacier National Park. Hike on numerous trails, drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, and take in the breathtaking views.

  2. Flathead Lake: Enjoy the largest natural freshwater lake in the western United States. Go swimming, boating, kayaking, or fishing in its crystal-clear waters.

  3. Hiking and Nature Walks: The valley offers an abundance of hiking trails and nature walks with varying difficulty levels. Choose from easy strolls to challenging hikes to experience the area's natural beauty.

  4. Whitefish Mountain Resort: In winter, enjoy skiing and snowboarding on the slopes of Whitefish Mountain Resort. In the summer, try mountain biking, zip-lining, and scenic gondola rides.

  5. Historic Downtown Kalispell: Wander through the charming downtown area of Kalispell, with its unique shops, galleries, and eateries. Don't miss the Conrad Mansion Museum, a beautifully preserved historic home.

  6. Cultural Attractions: Visit the Hockaday Museum of Art to appreciate regional art and cultural exhibits.

  7. Water Sports: Apart from Flathead Lake, enjoy water activities on other nearby lakes and rivers, such as Whitefish Lake, Swan Lake, and the Flathead River.

  8. Wildlife Viewing: The Flathead Valley is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Take a guided tour or explore on your own to spot animals like deer, elk, bears, and eagles.

  9. Festivals and Events: Check out local festivals and events happening throughout the year, such as the Whitefish Winter Carnival, Bigfork Festival of the Arts, and Kalispel, Whitefish and Columbia Falls Farmers' Market.

  10. Breweries and Distilleries: Sample locally brewed craft beers and distilled spirits at the various breweries and distilleries in the area.

  11. Golfing: Enjoy a round of golf at one of the scenic golf courses in the valley, surrounded by mountains and natural beauty.

  12. Fishing: If you're an angler, try your hand at fly-fishing in the region's abundant rivers and streams.

  13. Horseback Riding: Experience the Old West by going on a guided horseback ride through the valley's scenic landscapes.

  14. Wild Horse Island State Park: Take a boat trip to Wild Horse Island on Flathead Lake, where you can see wild horses and enjoy hiking and picnicking.

  15. Cherry Orchards: Visit a local cherry orchard (in season) to pick fresh cherries or purchase local products like cherry jam and pies.

Remember to check for seasonal availability and plan your activities accordingly. The Flathead Valley offers a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and explorers.